Mamata Banerjee Condemns VB-G RAM G Bill Changes
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has openly criticized the Central Government’s decision to rename the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) as the Viksit Bharat–Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill (VB-G RAM G Bill). During an administrative meeting in Kolkata on December 22, 2025, she stated that removing Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the act is pushing the country towards its ‘end.’
“They removed the name of the father of the nation and brought in Ram Naam… I am not against Ram Naam, it is an epic… But when people take dead bodies for cremation, they chant ‘Ram Naam Satya Hai’, the same way they are now taking the country towards its end after removing the name of Gandhiji,” she sarcastically remarked.
Background of MGNREGA and Its Rebranding
The MGNREGA, introduced in 2005, has been a lifeline for rural employment and development in India. The act guarantees 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. The recent legislative shift to the VB-G RAM G Bill has sparked widespread protests among various segments of society, including opposition leaders who walked out during the passing of the bill in Parliament.
In an attempt to honor Mahatma Gandhi in response to the central government’s renaming, the West Bengal government decided to rebrand its job guarantee scheme as ‘Mahatma-Shree,’ previously known as ‘Karmashree.’
Implications of the Legislative Change
Funding and Implementation Concerns
Since April 2022, funds for MGNREGA in Bengal have been suspended following allegations of corruption. Despite court orders from both the Supreme Court and the Calcutta High Court directing the resumption of the 100-day work scheme in the state, workers still await its implementation. The Chief Minister’s ongoing critique of the VB-G RAM G Bill emphasizes the discontent surrounding the potential impact of this bill on rural employment.
Experts have raised concerns that renaming such a significant employment scheme could undermine its credibility and effectiveness. Activists argue that MGNREGA has been instrumental in alleviating poverty and enabling social security in rural India.
Public Backlash Against Policy Change
The rebranding has led to protests across the country, with many viewing the government’s decision as an ideological departure from the principles that Mahatma Gandhi stood for. Numerous citizens have expressed their disappointment through marches, rallies, and online petitions, emphasizing the act’s historical significance.
A prominent political analyst stated, “Changing the name of an important scheme like MGNREGA undermines the very foundation of rural employment. It is essential to maintain its legacy, which is closely associated with Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of rural development.”
Political Landscape and Reactions
The announcement of the VB-G RAM G Bill has amplified tensions between the central government and opposition parties, with many legislators decrying the decision as divisive. Following the bill’s passage, multiple political leaders have condemned the government’s actions as an attack on the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi.
Mamata Banerjee’s sharp critique of the center has resonated with several regional leaders, who have echoed her sentiments. For instance, Akhilesh Yadav, leader of the Samajwadi Party, asserted that this move shows a lack of respect for India’s historical figures. He stated, “You can’t erase history to gratify political gain.”
Legal and Administrative Challenges
The ongoing legal and administrative tussles over MGNREGA’s funding highlight the underlying challenges facing rural employment schemes in West Bengal. The state government has repeated claims of mismanagement and corruption, which have further complicated the funding process. The Chief Minister’s administration aims to navigate these challenges while ensuring that the neediest citizens still receive employment support.
In response to the funding suspension, Mamata Banerjee’s government announced a reassessment of the criteria for eligibility and the distribution of funds. “We are committed to safeguarding the rights of our workers, and we will ensure that our Mahatma-Shree scheme fulfills its obligations,” she remarked.
Future Outlook for Rural Employment
The success of the VB-G RAM G Bill and its implementation will depend significantly on the central government’s ability to navigate criticisms and protests from various sectors. For many citizens, the act is synonymous with livelihood security and a tool to combat rural poverty.
The upcoming months will be crucial as both political parties assess the public’s response. The West Bengal government will closely monitor any legislative developments related to rural employment, seeking to ensure that the legacy of MGNREGA is preserved, even under its new nomenclature.
Minor Updates and Developments
In recent developments, the Centre indicated that it would reallocate some funds to support the new scheme, though details remain vague and subject to scrutiny by state governments. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding potential amendments to the VB-G RAM G Bill aimed at addressing some of the public grievances raised.
The West Bengal government has begun preparations to roll out the Mahatma-Shree scheme in the coming months, ensuring that it aligns with the directives issued by the courts while addressing local employment needs.